To succeed in any business or brand, you have to have a strong sense in networking. What it can do for you will potentially build bridges and open doors that can help you gain much needed opportunities. The problem is that most people understand networking as knowing as many people possible with the least bit of effort. That is only the shallow definition of what real networking is. You do need an adequate number of peer connections but you also need to understand the quality of those connections. It’s establishing a mutually beneficial relationship between parties and not just simply asking for favors when needed.
The quality also reflects on the type of people you do build rapport with. It’s pretty straightforward to build bridges with people who are more senior than you, but also consider to diversify your reach to different professionals at every level of an industry. This helps you become more flexible when taking on situations. Not everyone can easily build a big network and only a few actually become successful networkers in the end. The challenge is how you can be that prominent networker that can push their business to success. This is why you should be aware of the best tips on how to be a better networker.
Your title, expertise and skills may help set up first impressions but it’s not what actually strengthens bonds between people. All those assets will always be there and most people will already get that. What will help you make a lasting impression and get authentic interest from people is by engaging in friendly day-to-day conversations. These are what help find and set common ground between people and establish a more personal connection.
LEARN MORE: HOW TO BECOME AN INFLUENCER IN YOUR INDUSTRY
One of the worst thing any person can do in any relationship is fake interest and care. What you want is people to like you for who you are and using people just for favors will negatively mark your personal reputation. A healthy relationship is one where both parties have a natural sense of curiosity interest for each other while showing real care and concern. The best relationships are the ones that are mutually beneficial for both.
Networking is a system of knowing as many people as you can, but it doesn’t mean that you should strike up rapport to everyone that you bump into. You should understand what a large group of the wrong people can do compared to an adequate size of the right ones will. It will always have drastically different impact on you and your business. The right people will be the ones that help you reach your goals, support you through troubled times and defend you from your detractors.
It can be challenging to personally try and reach out to people and build a relationship. Most of us are busy people with a lot of appointments, meeting and deadlines to meet and setting up a personal sit-down can be a hassle for both parties. This is why informal parties and gatherings are great ways to meet new people and build your networking. It puts a large group of people into one setting and lessens all the other hassles.